Mock Metro Tunnel stations set up in Footscray warehouse

The project team working on the Metro Tunnel stations is finalising architectural elements for the five new stations inside a Footscray warehouse.

The warehouse, a former flower market, houses a mock train station with architectural elements from each of the underground stations – offering an insight into how the finished stations will look when they open a year ahead of schedule in 2025.

Victoria’s Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Jacinta Allan said the design and construction of the Metro Tunnel is creating jobs and supporting businesses.

“As the stations take shape, test trains are running at line speed deep beneath Melbourne – bringing us closer to the opening of the Metro Tunnel in 2025, a year ahead of schedule,” said Minister Allan.

Over the past three years, architects, designers and engineers have prototyped and tested everything from ticket gates to floor finishes inside the Footscray warehouse.

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Some of the proven design elements have already been installed across the stations, including light fittings, ceiling systems and platform screen doors (PSDs) – a first for the Victorian rail network – while train testing inside the tunnels is progressing.

The Footscray warehouse includes a mock station concourse, ticket gates, seating, customer help points, PSDs, signature light fittings and a replica of the cathedral-like arched ceilings at the two new CBD stations.

As part of a $45 million investment in local manufacturing, several of the elements being tested are being made in Melbourne, including light fittings, wall cladding, architectural brackets and ceiling fixtures.

Work at the five stations is also forging ahead, with installation of escalators and lifts, plumbing and electrical work continuing. Parkville Station’s glass entrance canopy is in place, while crews are building streets and footpaths outside Arden Station.

The Metro Tunnel remains on track to open a year ahead of schedule in 2025.